CHILDREN spend most of their school life looking forward to the summer holidays - but not every parent relishes the break in the same way.

With weeks to entertain and amuse the offspring, it is easy to try and organise too much, or, at the other end of the spectrum, give them a free reign and see another uneventful holiday slip by.

Experts agree that an element of forward planning is the key to keeping youngsters in a routine throughout the summer, giving parents the moments of peace they deserve.

For the youngest children, the county council has striven to promote the role of nurseries in Worcestershire, with two new centres opening - in London Road and Wakeman Street - in the past month.

"Nurseries can be a great way not just of leaving the children in a fun, safe environment, but of allowing them to socialise with other children," said Tracy Ashby, of Huneybeez Nursery, in Wakeman Street, Worcester.

"Most of children are here because their parents are at work, but others come just so they mix with other kids their age. Nurseries provide the opportunity to do a great deal - painting, play in the sandpit and we have a great garden so they can go outside.

"But we are also lucky because Worcester is great for children with its parks and play areas."

Worcester City Council has proved the point by launching the Summer in the City campaign, highlighting activities available for school-aged youngsters during the summer months.

The scheme, which breaks the holidays into six separate weeks, centres on four recreation sites - Nunnery Wood Sports Complex, Perdiswell Leisure Centre, Worcester Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre and St John's Sports Centre.

On offer throughout the summer are trips to Drayton Manor Park, Cadbury's World, scavenger hunts, craftwork days, team games, sports, arts days, orienteering, go-kart races, Harry Potter days and a great deal more.

"The response so far has been excellent," said Sarah Rollerson, from the city council. "We have arranged activities for a variety of age groups so there's something for everyone.

"The scheme provides the chance to try things like archery, canoeing and rock climbing that children may not normally get the chance to do during term time.

"And Monday to Friday activities also help to keep youngsters fit and active, and avoid them becoming lethargic during the holidays."

Worcestershire CIS also has details of family leisure and children's activities across the county, as well as holiday play schemes.

"Six weeks can seem like an eternity, but we can help," said Carol Leeson, a county CIS Officer.

"All it takes is one phone call to our helpline on 01905 790560 and we can help find something to do, wherever you are in Worcestershire."

For further information on Summer in the City visit www.cityofworcester.gov.uk and for general hints and tips log on to www.parentlineplus.org.uk

Help at hand for struggling parents